Rubbing out dogged aches and pains
DOGS with aches, pains and anxieties love the magic hands of Deb Haywood, who will show off her skills at the upcoming Woof-fest.
Penrith
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DOGS with aches, pains and anxieties love the magic hands of Deb Haywood.
The Werrington-based canine massage expert is one of a small number of canine myofunctional therapists practising in NSW. She said the relaxation technique could be used to help conditions ranging from arthritis to anxiety.
Even sporting dogs such as agility dogs, earthdogs, greyhounds and those performing at the Easter Show have lined up for a soothing treatment.
“The dogs just melt into it,’’ said Ms Haywood, of Deb’s K9 Massage. “And they benefit so greatly, particularly arthritic dogs. Seeing a dog go from barely able to get up to being able to chase a ball is just an amazing transformation.’’
Ms Haywood, who travels to treat doggie clients in their own homes, will showcase her skills at Woof-fest 2017 at Bungarribee Park on June 25. She said she was yet to meet a snappy client.
“I watch the body language of the dog. The dog tells me where they want me to work, where they need it.’’
Cranebrook golden retriever Sophie has been enjoying massages for two years as part of a regimen to help her lose weight and improve her problems with mobility due to arthritis.
“Sophie loves Deb,’’ said owner Rachael Carver. “She has picked up on spots where Sophie is particularly tender, particularly her back legs and hips. She nudges Deb to get started.’’
■ The Woof-fest for dogs and their humans is at Warrigal Run, Bungarribee Park on Sunday 25 June from 9am-1pm.
■ The free community festival will have live entertainment, dog skills demos, expert advice, kids’ activities, more than 50 dog-themed stalls and a dog fashion parade
More details: www.westernsydneyparklands.com.au